What characteristics come to mind when you think of the 343 New York City firefighters and paramedics who died during the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center? Cowardice? Weakness? Surely not. They gave the ultimate sacrifice while working to protect both comrade and stranger alike. Although these men and women were not the first or the last to die in the line of duty, they encompass many of the qualities that firefighters must exhibit when facing a crisis.

If you accept the challenges and responsibilities that come with choosing a career in fire science, you accept the unknown, though you do so knowing that you’ll be helping your fellow man. During your fire science career, you may not be called upon to respond to a disaster on the scale of the 9/11 attacks, but by embracing the example of the many brave firefighters who have gone before you, you will be prepared to enter the field with a strong body and sound mind.

The Physical Demands of Firefighting
A firefighter must keep his or her body in top physical condition. While fighting fires, your body will be subjected to extreme trauma from lifting, carrying, stretching, climbing, bending, jumping, running and other activities that will be required to ensure the safety of all those involved. Fires can last for hours, sometimes days, and the constant stress often takes its toll. Keeping your body physically fit improves its endurance. Fire is also unpredictable, So first responders need to be agile, quick and coordinated to compensate for the unexpected. Firefighters carry heavy loads – including people and equipment – and remain on their feet for long stretches of time. Maintaining a strong core is vital for this profession.

Strong bodies also heal more quickly. Unfortunately, firefighters aren’t immune to accidents while on the frontlines. Bodily injury can come from a piece of falling structural material or from the fire's flames, and inhaling toxic smoke in large quantities often results in internal injuries. Learning how to prevent these accidents is only part of the battle; staying physically fit will help you fight off the lasting effects that injuries can cause.

Mental Alertness in the Face of Danger
The circumstances during a firefight can change abruptly. Responders need to know how to make smart decisions in a split second. For this reason, fire departments put their recruits through periodic mental aptitude tests both during and after the leave the academy. Individuals who possess strong leadership skills in the field can also expect their efforts to be recognized through rank advancements within their departments.

Drug users need not apply. All fire departments screen their applicants anyway, but it goes without saying that you cannot perform your best while under the mind-altering influence of drugs. Be sure to speak with your physician to make certain your body and mind are fit enough to withstand the rigorous demands of fire science training.

A degree in fire science can go a long way in preparing you for a more enjoyable career. Fire science students learn the properties of fire and the means of controlling it. Many online schools and colleges offer fire science degrees. Your chances of getting a job within the fire engineering and prevention fields greatly increase with the more knowledge you have. Ask your local fire department about training programs that will give you an edge.

Fighting fires is a thrilling, often dangerous job. Conditioning your body and mind now to cope with the stress you will face will help both you and the people whom you will constantly strive to protect.